Cincinnati Family Law, Elder Law, Divorce Attorney

OLIVIA K. SMITH, FAMILY AND ELDER LAW ATTORNEY

I’ve been practicing law since May 2007. I realized early on that I enjoy working one on one with clients. I have no interest in creating a high-volume practice because that would take away from my ability to connect with each client and learn about that person as an individual. I view each case I have as unique and do not believe there is a one size fits all solution for anyone. I also believe that it is extremely important for you to trust me, feel connected, and know I am listening to YOUR concerns. So many times I have clients tell me that the other attorney they interviewed did not listen. I make every effort to hear what you are saying and incorporate your wishes into our decided upon course of action. My work in elder law and divorce/dissolution areas of practice is philosophically driven by personal experience.

Divorce/Dissolution Practice

My divorce/dissolution practice is guided by my belief that, while litigation is always an option, out of court settlements are usually best for your family. I am a step-mom and have a fierce belief that we, as adults, must strive to minimize the struggle children will be exposed to during and after the marriage termination process. Along with my personal experience, I draw from my previous experience as a Guardian Ad Litem in Clermont County. There I had the opportunity to represent the best interests of the children to the Court. Speaking with children immersed in the process of litigation provided me with a unique perspective from the eyes of children. Because I spend my time between this area of law and Elder law, I am very selective in what cases I accept.

We are also excited to welcome Christopher Diedling as a Family Law Associate. Please scroll down to learn more about Chris and his practice. Chris will be assisting me on cases as well as handling his own cases.

Elder Law Practice

My Elder Law Practice is driven by my deep seated belief that the elderly population deserves respect and dignity. I grew up knowing all four of my grandparents and had special relationships with all of them. My maternal grandmother was a farm owner, business woman and homemaker. Her inner strength and pragmatism inspire me in this practice. My maternal grandfather was a surgeon. His kindness and compassion inspire me in this practice. My paternal grandmother was a homemaker and hospital volunteer. Her sense of humor and eccentricity inspire me in this practice. My paternal grandfather was business owner. His work ethic and faith inspire me in this area of practice.

They are all gone now, but they are why I am driven to help individuals in the later stages of life. For more details on the specific areas of Elder law that I practice, please see the subject of interest to you.

Communication

I also know that it is important that you feel “in the loop” in your case. I strive to respond to your phone calls and emails as soon as I can. I strive to have honest and up front conversations with my clients regarding their personal circumstances. I strive to listen to your objectives and include those in our course of action. While I cannot guarantee any outcomes to your case, I will work for you and your interests diligently.

Accept my invitation to a consultation by contacting me now. I’m here to help.

Licenses

State of Ohio
U.S. District Court for The Southern District of Ohio

Education

Anderson High School, 1998 (Cincinnati, Ohio)
Virginia Tech, 2002 (Blacksburg, Virginia) (Go Hokies!)
University of Baltimore, School of Law, Dec 2006 (Baltimore, Maryland)

Training

2 Day Collaborative Law Training, Cincinnati, Ohio– February 2014
3 Day Medicaid Immersion Camp, San Antonio, TX – May 2016
1 Day The Ohio Medicaid Manual training, Columbus, Ohio August 2016

Memberships

Personal Interests

Being an attorney is a difficult job so self-care is a priority of mine. I am passionate about exercise as well as spiritual and personal development which ultimately helps me better serve my clients. I like running races – I ran 5 5Ks this summer and a mini-triathlon. You will rarely catch me without my Apple Watch (obsessed!). I love reading and listening to audio books to learn and also for pleasure. An adventure seeker by nature, I enjoy traveling during my off time. Some of the most exciting places I have traveled to are Thailand, China, Curacao, England, and New York City. My parents and brother live in Charleston, SC so I also visit there several times each year. Most recently, I visited Denver, Colorado for the first time. I ran the steps at Redrocks which was so cool! Next up, I want to attend a concert there. I look forward to getting to know you. Here are some candid pictures to help you get to know me better.

CHRISTOPHER DIEDLING, FAMILY LAW ASSOCIATE

I am an associate in the law firm of Cornetet, Meyer, Rush & Stapleton and my practice is concentrated in the areas of Family Law, Estate Planning, and Probate Administration.

I handle all aspects of Family Law and I am genuinely passionate about helping my clients with their legal needs in arduous family matters.

Prior to joining CMRS Law, I worked as a Family Law Associate in the firm of Shur Law Co., LPA. Prior to working in Family Law, I worked in business and in real estate. I also served as the Judicial Constable and Staff Attorney to the Honorable Judge Melissa Powers in the Hamilton County Juvenile Court.

I graduated from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 2017. I was awarded the Judge John W. Peck Trial Practice Award for excellence in Trial Advocacy upon graduation. As a member of UC Law’s Trial Practice Team, I won the Texas Young Lawyer’s Association’s (TYLA) Regional Trial Practice Competition in 2017 and in 2016. I represented UC Law at the TYLA National Trial Practice Competition in both years. I was also involved with UC Law’s Moot Court Team. While in law school, I worked as a law clerk for the United States Attorney’s Office in the Southern District of Ohio. I was also a Fellow at the Ohio Innocence Project. Through all of these experiences, I have developed a sharp advocacy skill set and a strong will to be an exceptional legal advocate for my clients.

I live in Over-the-Rhine in Downtown Cincinnati. I enjoy being active, hiking in the great outdoors, playing sports, and CrossFit training. I love going to Cincinnati Reds games, concerts, music festivals, exploring local breweries, and traveling.

FAMILY LAW:

Dissolution of Marriage
Uncontested Divorce
Contested Divorce
Prenuptial Agreements
Custody

BAR ADMISSIONS:

The State of Ohio – November 2017
United States District Court, Southern District of Ohio – December 2019

EDUCATION:

University of Cincinnati College of Law, J.D. – 2017
Xavier University, B.A. – 2013

MEMBERSHIPS:

Cincinnati Bar Association

Team Profiles